Le Mans in 48 Hours: Family-Friendly Fast Fun!

Unleash the thrill of Le Mans, France with an unforgettable family adventure.

19 July 2023

Le Mans, France offers a fantastic family-friendly trip with its rich history and exciting activities. Explore the iconic Circuit de la Sarthe, where the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans race takes place, and learn about the world of motorsports. Visit the charming old town with its medieval streets, ancient Roman walls, and stunning cathedral, perfect for a leisurely stroll and immersing yourselves in the local culture.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Roam the Racing Capital:

  • Step back in time at Le Mans Cathedral, an architectural marvel boasting stunning stained glass windows.
  • Immerse yourself in the history of motorsport at the Automobile Museum, featuring iconic cars and interactive exhibits.
  • Take a leisurely stroll through the Plantagenet City, a medieval quarter with charming half-timbered houses.
  • Put on your racing cap and visit the Circuit des 24 Heures, where the legendary Le Mans 24 Hours race takes place.
  • Ice cream time! Treat the family to a scoop (or two) of artisanal delights at the delightful Glacier de la Cathédrale.
  • End your day with a family-friendly dinner at Le Saint Hilaire, a quaint restaurant specializing in delicious French cuisine.
Day 2

A Whirlwind of Fun:

  • Start the day with a visit to the Zoo de la Flèche, home to 1,500 animals, including red pandas and majestic lions.
  • Discover the fascinating world of plants at the Jardin des Plantes, a beautiful botanical garden with vibrant flora.
  • Head to Le Mans Karting International for some adrenaline-pumping go-karting action. Ready, set, race!
  • Get your cultural fix at the Musée de Tesse, housing a diverse collection of art, from ancient artifacts to modern masterpieces.
  • Settle down for a picnic by the peaceful riverside of the Huisne. Enjoy the moment as the water flows lazily by.
  • Wrap up your adventure with a family dinner at Le Bistrot du Boucher, a charming steakhouse serving mouthwatering cuts of meat.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Le Mans by plane is to fly into Paris Charles De Gaulle Airport and then take a train from Gare de l'Est station in Paris to Le Mans station. There are several flights from major cities worldwide that operate into Paris Charles De Gaulle Airport. From there, take the RER B line to Gare du Nord and transfer to Gare de l'Est station to take the train.

Car

The best way to get to Le Mans by car is to drive from Paris. The journey takes around 2 hours and if you don't have a car, you can rent one from any of the major car rental companies in Paris.

Train

The best way to get to Le Mans by train is to take the TGV train from Paris Montparnasse station. This station is easily accessible by metro in Paris. The journey takes around 55 minutes and trains run regularly throughout the day.

Boat

There are no direct boat routes to Le Mans as the city is located inland. The closest port is in Nantes, which is a 2-hour drive from Le Mans. From Nantes, you can take a regional train to Le Mans station.

Bus

The best way to get to Le Mans by bus is to take a coach from Paris-Bercy station. This station can be accessed by metro in Paris. The journey takes around 2.5 hours and there are several coaches that run daily.

More travel plans

Weekend Escape: Two Days in Lively Le Mans

Le Mans is a city in the Pays de la Loire region of France. It is best known for its connection with the famous 24-hour car race that takes place annually at the Circuit de la Sarthe. Tourists can explore the historic old town, visit the Le Mans Cathedral, and enjoy the region's delicious cuisine and wine.

4 Days of Adventure in Budget-Friendly Le Mans!

A trip to Le Mans, France on a limited budget is possible with careful planning. Visiting the old town with its cobbled streets and picturesque buildings is a must, as is a visit to the renowned 24-hour car race track. Opt for budget-friendly accommodations and dining options to make the trip more affordable.

Le Mans in 3 Days: City, Wine & Castle

Travel to Le Mans, France on a budget requires careful planning and research, but it is possible to enjoy this charming city without breaking the bank. Affordable accommodations can be found in hotels or hostels outside of the city center, and there are plenty of free or low-cost attractions to explore, like the Cathédrale St-Julien and the Musée de Tessé. For an authentic experience, try the local cuisine at budget-friendly eateries like La Table des Dames or Bistrot des Copains.

5 Days of Romance and History in Le Mans, France

A romantic trip to Le Mans, France offers a perfect blend of history and charm. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of the city while admiring the historic architecture. Couples can get lost in the narrow streets and indulge in the local delicacies or immerse themselves in the rich motorsport culture of the iconic Le Mans race circuit.